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Lyon to launch blood tests to detect “forever chemicals” in residents
Authorities in the Lyon metropolitan area announced on Friday that around 300 residents will undergo blood tests by the end of the year to measure their exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals.” The study, carried out by the Ecocitizen Institute for Pollution Research and supported by the regional health agency (ARS), aims to assess both the presence of PFAS in the body and their potential health impacts.
PFAS are synthetic compounds widely used for their non-stick, waterproof and heat-resistant properties. However, they are extremely persistent in the environment and have been linked to serious health issues, including cholesterol disorders, fertility problems, developmental risks for fetuses, and certain types of cancer.
The Lyon metropolitan area is one of the regions most affected in France, largely due to the presence of a major chemical platform in Pierre-Bénite where industrial groups such as Arkema and Daikin have long used PFAS. About 3,000 residents will first be invited to participate, with a final panel of 300 people—adults and children—selected based on criteria such as age, sex, and medical eligibility. The campaign will look for 32 PFAS molecules in blood samples, with results expected in 2025.
The initiative comes as the European Union prepares a 2026 proposal to ban PFAS in most consumer products, such as food packaging and clothing, while allowing certain exceptions.
